Citrix has posted an open invitation for Windows users to test new features in GoToWebinar. The prototypes are not available for Mac users at this time.
Test features ("Labs" in Citrix parlance) can be enabled and disabled individually, so you can work with whichever ones sound interesting or useful and turn off ones that seem to be giving you problems.
There are some great enhancements in the current list, including things that users have been requesting for quite some time.
- Share a prerecorded video. This is probably the number one request I have heard for GoToWebinar. The new feature will let you stream a full-motion video clip (with audio) for attendees. I haven't tried it out yet, but the preview picture shows full player controls including a pause button. One of the big questions is how well the video stays in sync for all participants. If you pause it, does everybody pause on the same frame? Does the video finish at the same time for everyone so you can continue with your live presentation?
- Show profile pictures of staff. This just adds a static preloaded image with your name in the names list.
- Share a rectangle. Instead of always showing your entire desktop, you will be able to outline an arbitrary rectangle on your screen and only display the contents inside that region to attendees.
- Show Control Panel. Great for training and familiarization sessions with guest presenters, you will be able to show them the control panel on your desktop.
This is exciting stuff and demonstrates a dedication to continued product development and growth. That's good news for people who thought the recent uncertainty about Citrix ownership of their collaboration products might freeze innovation.
I won't be reviewing operation of these features until they go into production for public use. It isn't fair to comment on things that are still under development. But I'm happy to see the announcements!
